INVERMAY will be connected to natural gas despite fears it would be far too expensive to complete the project.
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Deputy Premier Peter Ryan made the announcement in Swan Hill on Tuesday morning, saying Brookfield Infrastructure Group had been selected to connect gas to Heathcote, Invermay, Lakes Entrance, Maldon, Marong, Orbost, Terang, Swan Hill, Kerang, Robinvale and Nathalia.
The Courier has previously reported on the fears the connection to Invermay would not go ahead, with the owner of Western Victoria's gas network, AusNet Services, describing the town as "too expensive" to connect.
"We are now delivering gas to all 14 priority towns announced as part of the Energy for The Regions Program, as well as a further four communities along the Murray River," Mr Ryan said.
He said reticulated natural gas would be delivered regardless of which side of politics won November's election.
"Having a reticulated natural gas connection will attract new forms of industry to town, particularly job creating energy intensive manufacturing enterprises," Mr Ryan said.
"It will also support residents by providing a cheaper, cleaner source of energy, whether that is for heating or cooking."